In the presence of Republic of Azerbaijan President H.E. Mr Ilham Aliyev, the official opening ceremony transformed the arena into a vibrant tribute to Azerbaijan’s culture, history and sporting ambition. Through music, dance, images and light, the afternoon celebrated a country that has become a major destination for international judo.
The message was one of unity, friendship and peace, values that were echoed throughout the arena before attention returned to the intensity of the competition.
On the tatami, the Abe siblings once again confirmed their extraordinary status. Uta Abe claimed a sixth world title in the −52 kg category, while her brother Hifumi Abe conquered the −66 kg category once more.
Their achievements must never be viewed as routine. To return to the world championships year after year, with every opponent studying every movement and preparing a specific strategy, is one of the most difficult challenges in elite sport. The pressure is permanent, the expectations immense and the smallest hesitation can change everything. Yet Uta and Hifumi Abe found their way through every trap. Their ability to remain composed under such scrutiny, to adapt and to prevail repeatedly, makes this new double success all the more remarkable.
Baku has witnessed a ceremony of great scale and emotion and, also on day two, we have witnessed the enduring excellence of two champions who continue to set the standard for world judo.